Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis in South Dakota, and the impact of Alzheimer’s is projected to rise. A comprehensive public health approach is essential to improve community health, support the well-being of those living with cognitive decline and their families, and reduce the risk of dementia throughout communities. The most recent data show:

Fact sheets on Alzheimer's and dementia in South Dakota

View and download state-specific fact sheets for the latest data on each topic:

Learn more about how these data are collected in the annual Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Public health progress in South Dakota

State, local, territorial and tribal health departments are key partners in implementing a robust public health response to dementia. The South Dakota Department of Health (SD DOH) is improving brain health throughout the state.

The SD DOH initiated the formation of a statewide coalition made up of more than 50 individuals representing public health, aging services, health care, academia and community organizations, all working collaboratively to improve awareness, early detection, risk reduction and quality of life for individuals living with dementia and their care partners across South Dakota. The coalition's planning process emphasizes actionable goals to ensure that the plan reflects the needs of local communities and creates pathways for lasting impact across the state.

Working across the levels of prevention

Across the levels of prevention, the South Dakota Department of Health implements public health programs and interventions to address Alzheimer's through:

• Risk reduction: Partnered with the Alzheimer's Association to share dementia risk reduction strategies and brain health resources to Tribal Health and Indian Health Services staff.
• Dementia caregiving: Partnered with Better Choices, Better Health South Dakota to help caregivers improve their caregiving skills and their overall well-being through the Building Better Caregivers program.

Developing public health infrastructure and expanding capacity

Public health programs are critical to helping people stay cognitively healthy throughout life. The South Dakota Department of Health is developing infrastructure and expanding capacity through the implementation of the BOLD program award.

Resources for public health professionals

Tools from the Alzheimer's Association provide public health strategies that public health professionals can use to improve brain health and support caregivers and people living with dementia in your community.

Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map

This guidebook provides state and local public health agencies with 24 actions to act quickly and strategically to effect positive changes in policies, systems and environments.

HBI Road Map for American Indian and Alaska Native Peoples

Find 13 public health strategies to help American Indian and Alaska Native communities improve brain health, address dementia and support caregivers.

Public Health Curriculum

This curriculum is designed for public health students, educators and professionals.

Risk Reduction

Public health can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's across the lifespan by promoting being physically active, quitting smoking, and being heart-healthy.
 

Early Detection & Diagnosis

Public health professionals can educate the community and health care providers on the benefits of early detection and help reduce barriers to diagnosis.

Caregiver Support

Public health can raise awareness of caregiver needs and help develop support and resources.